As the high school basketball season heads into its stretch run, look for the level of play and competition to kick into overdrive.

The Henry Neighbor offers up this preview — along with some commentary and prognostications — of what this part of the 2012-13 season will look like and how several area boys’ teams may fare on the hardwood.

 Dutchtown

The Bulldogs were 7-5 heading into last week’s highly anticipated rematch with Griffin — whom they beat by five in early December.

Dutchtown earned a berth in last season’s GHSA Class 4-A state tournament. The club, anchored by the steady play of senior guard Kalvin Hobbs, obviously has time and the talent to turn its fortunes around. As with any team, staying healthy and regular production in the post and on the perimeter can curb its ills.

Projection: The Bulldogs will be a tough out in the upcoming Region 4-AAAA tournament. A return trip to the GHSA postseason may be in the cards.

 Eagle’s Landing

The Golden Eagles, fresh off last week’s big 48-45 win over Jonesboro, may have finally found their comfort zone.

Electric point guard Isaiah Dennis and 6 foot 10 big Desmond Ringer are merely two studs on a roster of standouts.

Projection: A deep playoff run — provided the team continues to gel.

 Luella

The Lions (11-3) look to be on quite a roll these days.

Luella had reeled off three consecutive wins heading into last week since a Dec. 29 holiday tournament loss to Shiloh.

The Lions notched impressive, tight wins against the likes of Newton and Monroe to start the New Year off on the right foot. Six-foot-11 sophomore center Doral Moore is a diamond in the rough and 6 foot 5 wing TeMarcus Blanton is another one to watch.

Projection: The Lions will finish at or near the top of the Region 2-AAAAAA standings if they stay healthy. From there, a GHSA Sweet 16 berth could be their floor and not their ceiling.

 Henry County

With last season’s run to the GHSA Elite 8 still fresh in their minds, the Warhawks again look built to last.

Senior power forward Cornelious (Dre) Souder continues to anchor a squad brimming with some size in the post and quickness on the perimeter.

Projection: Going through the field at the Region 2-AAA tourney — which they are capable of pulling off — will serve as preparation for another deep postseason run.

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